Pundit dismisses claim Liverpool star would get in World Cup starting XIs of ‘France, Spain and Brazil’

Paul Robinson has dismissed Gary Neville’s claim that ‘France, Spain and Brazil’ would all have Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold in their starting XI at the World Cup.

The Reds star made a rare appearance under Southgate when he came on as a substitute in the 3-0 win over Wales that secured the Three Lions top spot in their group and a date with Senegal in the last 16 on Sunday.

Kieran Trippier and Kyle Walker started the games against Iran, USA and Wales. And Robinson believes Alexander-Arnold has no chance of jumping in ahead of the duo.

The 24-year-old is regarded as one the world’s best attacking right-backs. However, defensively he’s often been found wanting and is not fully trusted by Southgate.

That stance left Neville frustrated after the USA draw, while Brazilian great Cafu is also a big Alexander-Arnold fan.

But speaking to Football Insider, former England keeper Robinson has refuted the idea that the Liverpool man should get the nod against Senegal.

He said, when asked about Neville’s comments: “I cannot see Alexander-Arnold coming into the team.

“Trippier and Walker have done nothing wrong. One of those will start against Senegal.

“Trippier is a very good defender who is also a great set-piece taker. His all-round game outweighs what Trent gives you offensively.

“Trippier and Walker are reliable. There is no reason to change it in my opinion.

“We are in the knockout stages now. You cannot experiment. I don’t think there will be many major changes of personnel from now on unless there are injuries.”

Alexander-Arnold should have 50 caps by now

Despite making his debut back in 2018, Alexander-Arnold has only made 18 appearances for his country.

During that time he was won virtually everything there is to win at club level and is one the first names on Jurgen Klopp’s team sheet.

In 175 total Premier League appearances, Alexander-Arnold has scored 11 goals and added 45 assists.

The Reds are not back in action until December 22 when they host Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.

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